Samsung intros GamePad controller for Android phones

Samsung has a new clip-on GamePad accessory for its Galaxy smartphones and phablets, with built-in NFC.

The new controller has three multi-directional joysticks and four contextual buttons, in a smoothly curved oval that's vaguely reminiscent of the Wii U GamePad. Two select/start buttons are hidden on the lower front of the gamepad, along with a power switch which enables Bluetooth.

With built-in NFC, the GamePad is compatible with any Android phone running 4.1 Jelly Bean or newer, and can hold phones from 4 to 6.3 inches in screen size. It's also "optimised" for Samsung's own Galaxy devices running Android 4.3, like the Galaxy S4 and Note 3; the Play button in the centre of the gamepad launches Samsung's Mobile Console app, which has a range of titles like Need for Speed: Most Wanted and Asphalt 8: Airborne, along with 33 other titles for what Samsung says is a "reasonable price."

More games are on their way in 2014 for Samsung's gamepad app, but the controller itself will have to find its way to more countries first. It's currently only available in Europe, and there's no hint yet as to whether it'll be released in Australia.